As a country rapidly transforming into an out-of-shape nation, with most adults spending the bulk of their days driving a car, working on a computer, eating meals and watching TV while sitting, the health risks go far beyond what's visible to the eye and deep into the core of the human body.

"Among the many muscles adversely affected by prolonged sitting is the all-important Psoas," says Ann Steinfeld, the clinic's founder and CEO. "A tight Psoas muscle, which can cause not only back pain but also radiate to the lower abdomen and down the inner thigh, is often overlooked as the source of pain and organ issues, but long known by physical therapists as a major contributing factor. Thankfully, it is a health condition that can be reversed by specific exercises that target the lengthening and strengthening of that core muscle, which is often referred to as the soul of the body."

Statistics show Americans spend an average of 11 hours a day sitting down. That's an alarming amount of time considering sitting for as little as two continuous hours has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, cancer, and numerous orthopedic problems. Physical therapists, trained to identify asymmetries, movement compensation, and risk for potential injury, are an effective weapon in the battle to encourage people to spend more time in a vertical position. In addition to in-depth knowledge and expertise in muscles such as the Psoas and their primary functions, PTs consider a sedentary person's capacity for exercise as an important factor, one that can be addressed through endurance tests including the six-minute walk test and three-minute step test. With this aggregate information, a PT can create a plan of care to reduce pain, teach healthy postures and movements, and increase activity levels, all of which can lead to a healthier, happier and longer life.

"Many think of physical therapists as health professionals who provide services when an impairment or injury occurs," Steinfeld adds. "We are, in fact, first line of response when it comes to relieving pain, whether from an injury or from repetitive movement. But, as more and more individuals become aware of the detrimental results of inactivity, they are turning to us as a trusted advisor and partner in health maintenance and prevention."

ABOUT ANN STEINFELD PHYSICAL THERAPYAnn Steinfeld Physical Therapy is a privately owned outpatient practice in Orange County, Calif. specializing in the evaluation and treatment of physical injuries and disabilities resulting from a wide range of conditions related to sports and athletics, surgical procedures, occupation, repetitive motion and accidents, as well as those specific to age and gender. Ann Steinfeld's highly skilled and trained, licensed physical therapists utilize a broad spectrum of the most advanced physical intervention and rehabilitation techniques to alleviate pain, restore mobility, improve balance and coordination, and increase muscular strength and endurance. Referred to by leading physicians throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, Ann Steinfeld provides a comprehensive team approach to ensure successful patient outcomes, while maintaining the highest quality of exceptional one-to-one care in an energetic, positive and ethical environment. For more information visit: www.annsteinfeldpt.com.